The connected car is here ... next is driverless car

In the recent launch of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class, a company official said to journalists: “Enjoy driving it while you can!”
He was referring to technology that allows the car to virtually drive itself. Yet, the legal framework in many countries is not up to dealing with self-driven cars yet.
The next generation of the S-Class, due before 2020, would definitely be capable of autonomous driving, we are told.
Several systems work together in the new S-Class to enhance its self-driving capabilities.
These are collectively known as Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive (MBID).
The technology includes Pre-Safe System, Active Lane Assist and the Distronic Plus with Steering Assist which helps the driver keep a safe distance from the car in front at speeds from 0-200 km/h.
The Steering Assist helps the driver by keeping the car at the center of the lane even in slight bends. There is also Magic Body Control: a system of road-surface scan which the company claims is a world first.
At speeds up to 130 km/h, stereo cameras monitor and analyze the road ahead.
The exact surface contours are passed on to Active Body Control.
The active suspension compensates for body movement resulting from uneven road surfaces. The result is enhanced driving comfort.
These systems are major blocks on the road to autonomous cars. Mercedes-Benz confirms that the technology is there, but has to wait for legislation.
As for now, we have to be content with technology that assists the driver, enhances safety and connects the car to the Internet.
There are systems that entertain and inform the drivers and passengers; and others that raise awareness and safety for all onboard.
Car companies agree on the need for connectivity but differ on how to do that and for what purpose.
Most luxury cars produced this year carry their own hotspots.
Manufacturers can also add the system as an extra in lower-segment vehicles.
Drivers can also connect via a smart phone and share its cellular connection by “tethering” the car to the mobile network.
The process of hooking-up cars to the Internet is expanding all the time. It would cover about 25 percent of the market over the next four years, according to a technology company called “iSuppli Technology.”
This connection would open the door to a multitude of applications.
In addition to live traffic information, drivers can access pretty much what they want on the Internet from local restaurants to music and video streaming.
Some companies use voice commands in order to keep the driver focused on the road. Ford uses a system called “My Ford Touch” which includes different apps similar to those on a smartphone.
The system, developed with Microsoft, is software-based and user-friendly. Updating the system would be via software upgrades and adding new apps.
Another example is BMW ConnectedDrive. In the new i3 and i8 electric and hybrid models, the vehicles have their own version of ConnectedDrive.
BMW is pitching the segment as coming with “connectivity as standard.” Indeed, all i3s and i8s get Bluetooth, DAB radio, iDrive Touch, cruise control, BMW Business Navigation, BMW Online, BMW Apps and Advanced ConnectedDrive as standard.
Some of these features may not operate in markets that lack the necessary infrastructure, but the cars are technology-ready.
Audi uses a similar system called Audi Connect which links its vehicles to high-speed Internet access with an integrated wireless hotspot.
Audis can become mobile wireless hotspots, enabling passengers to go online with up to eight mobile devices per car and download their e-mails. In the future, special smartphone functions would also facilitate new software functions in the cars.
Audi Connect enables the adaptive cruise control to work with the navigation system so it knows the selected route in advance.
The company is also known for its LED active lighting technology, Quattro drives and light body aluminum.
Cadillac uses a system called CUE (Cadillac User Experience) which combines voice recognition, connectivity and intuitive interface. Other technologies used by Cadillac include Head-Up Display (HUD); night-vision, and Stabili-trac.
Most companies are trying to resolve the conflict between providing too much information and the need for concentration on driving and safety.
Several companies, including Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar, offer the split-vision screens where drivers can follow up on navigation information while front passengers can watch a video on the same screen.
It is still illegal for drivers to use mobiles, text or access video information manually while driving.
Technology may be a great help to drivers but it can also be a dangerous distraction.